Bernard Kerik, Former NYC Police Commissioner, Dies at 69 After Illness
Bernard Kerik, former NYC police commissioner, has died at 69 after a private illness, leaving behind a complex legacy of service and controversy.
Bernard Kerik, NYPD chief during 9/11, dies
World News Group
Former NYPD Commissioner, 9/11 hero Bernie Kerik dead at 69
The Post Millennial
Overview
Bernard Kerik, the former New York City police commissioner, died on May 29, 2025, at 69 after a private illness. His death was confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel, who praised Kerik as a patriot and warrior. Kerik was decorated over 100 times for valor, notably for his leadership during the 9/11 attacks. However, he faced legal troubles, serving nearly four years in prison for tax fraud before receiving a pardon from President Trump in 2020. After his release, he continued to work in crisis management and was involved in legal challenges regarding the 2020 election. He is survived by his wife and children.
Content generated by AI—learn more or report issue.
Get both sides in 5 minutes with our daily newsletter.
Analysis
Left
There are not enough sources from this perspective to provide an analysis.
Center
There are not enough sources from this perspective to provide an analysis.
Right
The articles express admiration for Bernie Kerik's courage and leadership during the 9/11 crisis.
They highlight both his commendable service and legal troubles, creating a nuanced portrayal.
The tone varies from highly positive to neutral, reflecting different perspectives on his legacy.
Left
There are not enough sources from this perspective to provide an analysis.
Center
There are not enough sources from this perspective to provide an analysis.
Right
The articles express admiration for Bernie Kerik's courage and leadership during the 9/11 crisis.
They highlight both his commendable service and legal troubles, creating a nuanced portrayal.
The tone varies from highly positive to neutral, reflecting different perspectives on his legacy.
Articles (18)
Rolling Stone·16d·"…Kerik dedicated his life to protecting the American people."
The Guardian·15d·"…Kerik, an Army veteran, was hailed as a hero after the 9/11 attack and eventually nominated to head the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), before a dramatic fall from grace that ended with him behind bars."
NBC News·16d·"…Kerik was hailed as a hero after the 9/11 attack and eventually nominated to head the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, before a dramatic fall from grace that ended with him behind bars."
NPR·16d·"…Kerik was hailed as a hero after the 9/11 attack and eventually nominated to head the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, before a dramatic fall from grace that ended with him behind bars."
USA TODAY·16d·"…Kerik dedicated his life to protecting the American people, serving as New York City's top cop in the wake of terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001."
ABC News·16d·"…Kerik, an Army veteran, rose to the pinnacle of law enforcement before a fall so steep that even a city jail named after him was renamed."
Associated Press·16d·"…Kerik, an Army veteran, rose to the pinnacle of law enforcement before a fall so steep that even a city jail named after him was renamed."
BBC News·15d·"…Kerik oversaw the police response to the deadliest terrorist attack in US history, and was later appointed by former US President George Bush as head of a provisional police force in Iraq."
World News Group·15d·"…Kerik was decorated more than 100 times for valor and service, which included his leadership of the response to the 9/11 terror attacks."
FOX News·16d·"…He was my best friend, a true Patriot, and one of the bravest men I've ever known."
FOX News·16d·"…His 35-year career has been recognized in more than 100 awards for meritorious and heroic service, including a presidential commendation for heroism by President Ronald Reagan and two Distinguished Service Awards from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security."
Washington Examiner·15d·"…Kerik was police commissioner during the September 11th terrorist attacks in 2001 and remained in the position until the end of the year, when Giuliani’s term expired."
New York Sun·15d·"…Kerik experienced both extremes — a life to be judged in its entirety by anyone seeking to make sense of his legacy."
Newsmax·15d·"…Bernie Kerik, great American veteran, a police officer's police officer."
Newsmax·16d·"…He was my best friend, a true Patriot, and one of the bravest men I've ever known."
Newsmax·16d·"…His steady leadership during this historic time earned him national and international respect."
Newsmax·16d·"…A memorial service celebrating Kerik’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy is expected soon."
The Post Millennial·15d·"…His legacy is not just in the medals or the titles, but in the lives he saved, the city he helped rebuild, and the country he served with honor."
FAQ
History
- 15d16 articles
- 15d12 articles
- 16d4 articles